The growth of social media is pretty astonishing.

Not only has it happened almost overnight – both Twitter and Facebook fully opened their doors to the general public less than six years ago – but the rate at which users and brands have adopted and embraced these channels into their personal and professional lives is incredible – and it’s not showing any signs that it’s slowing down.

Facebook and Twitter now boast a combined membership of more than one billion users, and both platforms have only began to tap into the non-Western world. With billions of eyeballs still up for grabs, businesses of all shapes and sizes, and in almost any field, can build and engage huge communities, driving awareness, traffic and sales.

This infographic from marketing agency Wilson Cooke takes a closer look at the how and why of promoting your business online.

Tip: If you’re new to social media, check out yesterday’s Social Media Cheat Sheet.

(Source: Wilson Cooke.)